Hundreds join in Ohio State's celebration of Anne and Woody Hayes

Approximately 800 people attended Ohio State University’s celebration of legendary football coach Woody Hayes on Friday evening. The Woody and Anne Hayes Tribute Event, which highlighted Hayes’ coaching career and the impact both he and Anne Hayes had on the university, was held at the aptly-named Woody Hayes Athletic Facility on campus.

Woody Hayes was head coach of the Ohio State football team for 28 seasons (1951–1978) and a significant contributor to the university during his tenure as a coach and as a member of the university staff. During his time as coach, the Buckeyes won five national championships, 13 Big Ten Conference titles and accumulated a record of 205–61–10.

Hayes, also known for his love of the university, inspired hundreds of thousands with his passion for winning and his love of military history.

The tribute event featured noted NFL players, sports leaders and sports celebrities from multiple eras. Archie Griffin, president and CEO of The Ohio State University Alumni Association, and the nation’s only two-time Heisman Trophy winner, was master of ceremonies. ESPN and ABC sportscaster Brent Musburger was special guest at the tribute, and Steven Hayes, son of Anne and Woody, served as honorary chair for the event.
During the event, guests enjoyed a panel discussion led by Musburger that featured former Steven Hayes and former football players including John Hicks, Greg Lashutka and Paul Warfield. They watched excerpts from Hayes’ 1986 commencement address, a brief video titled, “Woody in His Own Words” and learned about Anne Hayes in a segment about “The Woman BESIDE the Man.”

Former players shared their thoughts about the legendary coach: